The ceremony marking completion of a course of study, typically at a school or university. Also refers to the process of advancing by degrees or stages.
From Latin 'gradus' meaning 'step' or 'degree,' through Medieval Latin 'graduatio.' Originally referred to the conferring of academic degrees, with the stepping metaphor reflecting progression through levels of learning.
The iconic graduation cap, called a mortarboard, gets its name from its resemblance to the square board masons use to hold mortar. The tassel traditionally starts on the right side and moves to the left during the ceremony, symbolizing the transition from candidate to graduate.
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